School of Medicine Class of 2020 Reflections on its Time at Hopkins: Aravind Krishnan

Aravind Krishnan
Program:
M.D.
Instagram: @arav_rocky

What will you miss the most about Hopkins?

I'll miss the culture of the institution the most. I've spent 9 years at Hopkins, as an undergrad and then a medical student after a gap year, and I've been struck by the unique Hopkins spirit of innovation, collaboration, and motivation to improve peoples' lives. I feel that if you share this goal: to help others, you will be welcomed with open arms at Hopkins, no matter what stage of training you are in. Being mentored by some of the greatest minds in medicine at such a formative time in my career, and seeing their passion and love for their work has shaped who I am and will continue to guide me as I move on from being a student at Hopkins.
 

How has Hopkins prepared you for your next step in life?

I am heading to Stanford University to begin my residency in Cardiothoracic Surgery (in the footsteps of many of my mentors at Hopkins!). Hopkins has prepared me for the inevitable challenges of residency by providing me with a foundation in approaching challenges. Education at Hopkins Med emphasizes resourcefulness, self-guided learning, and leadership. Residents and attendings always pushed me to be an active member of the team, never an observer, and to take ownership of the care of patients I had the privilege to see.

Additionally, I hope to pursue a career as a surgeon-scientist. Hopkins has provided me with an awesome foundation in basic, translational, and clinical research. I feel well-informed on how to ask meaningful questions, that I will hopefully answer in my career to improve patient outcomes.
 

How will you give back to current students and help them follow in the footprints of other alumni?

I think one of the greatest joys of attending Hopkins med is the company you attend with, not only in your graduating year, but in those above and below you. I was so fortunate to have peer mentors like Dr. Matt Woods (MD '19) guide me through the residency application process, host me during sub-internships and interviews, and be available and supportive throughout medical school. I've actively tried to share the lessons I've learned along the way with students at all levels in the process, from pre-med to current applicants. To all students reading this, please never hesitate to reach out if I may be helpful in any way. Hopkins medicine truly is a family, and I'm eager to do my part to pay forward the support I've been given.

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